[Nedusa]

Originally Posted by LeatherTrumpet

I think the fact that religion historically has had a position of power and respect and the fact that it is now dwindling to the point of extinction in the UK religionists now feel threatened when anyone dares to question their "faith" or belief with no evidence.

50 years ago if you were very religious people respected you and it gave you status in your community, now it probably has the reverse role.

Thus we get the truths line about aggressive atheists and the like, its a common theme - indeed Dawkins, who is a mild mannered and thoughtful chap gets all this biollocks thrown at him!

I think Religion mirrors the mood of the times or the Zeitgeist, it changes to suit the prevailing mindset. I think large organised Christian Churches like the C of E/Methodist or the Catholic Church have seen falling attendences over the past 30 years but this has been to some extent balanced by the growth in newer more modern churches like the Baptist or Evangelical movements especially with the incease in TV Religious Channels.

I think more people are experiencing their faith on a more personal level so have less desire to trek to a building which may be miles away.

Also the change in perception of Atheism has encouraged more people to openly state they have Atheist or even Anti-Theist views, and who can blame them when they look around at the murderous crimes committed in the name of Deities.

As for Mr Dawkins who is a confirmed Anti-Theist along with the likes of Stephen Fry, well he is entitled to his opinion as long as he doesn't try and ram it down everybody's throat.